Saving Animals In The Wild Starts Right Here In Houston
Each month, the Houston Zoo invites guests and community members to take part in hands-on saving-wildlife activities that help restore the outdoor places our community loves. These opportunities are designed to be simple, meaningful, and open to everyone; no experience is required.
Inspired by Umuganda, a monthly community service tradition in Rwanda practiced by our saving-wildlife partners, these events take place on the last Saturday of each month.
Upcoming Dates:
- May 30
- June 27
- July 25
- August 29
- September 26
- October 24
- November 28
What You Can Expect
Participants will spend a few hours working alongside Zoo staff and local wildlife-saving partners on projects that help create wildlife-friendly spaces, such as:
- Planting native plants that provide food and shelter for wildlife
- Removing litter from beaches, bays, and bayous that harm local wild spaces and the animals that call them home
Activities are family-friendly, accessible, and designed so that every effort makes a difference for communities and local wildlife. We’ll provide guidance, tools, and support. You just bring your love for wildlife and willingness to help.
By taking part, you’re doing your part to save animals in the wild, here in Houston and beyond.
About Umaganda
Neighbors for Nature was inspired by Umuganda, a monthly community service tradition in Rwanda practiced by our saving-wildlife partners. These events take place on the last Saturday of each month, when communities come together to complete projects that strengthen neighborhoods and support the greater good.
Umuganda means “coming together in common purpose” in Kinyarwanda, the official language of Rwanda. It reflects a shared belief that even small actions, done together, can create meaningful and lasting change.
